The other reason he would want to stay is that he realizes the impact Shaq made on the city when he opted to leave Orlando for the Lakers after leading the Magic to the 1995 Finals. O'Neal left as a free agent and some believe the original Superman never had any intention on remaining in Florida.

It didn't help that a newspaper opinion poll revealed that most fans didn't think Shaq was worth a mega-contract. (He proved that wrong, right Lakers fans?)

"My responsibility is to my family first, then the organization and then my city," Howard said. "I will never turn my back on this city as long as they don't turn their back on me. I've always been down for this city. I've always represented Orlando, whatever it is.

"I've always wanted to see Orlando on top because we've always been overlooked — not just as a basketball franchise — but as a city. I do a lot for the community, especially in the African American community, because of what goes on. I try to do my best. One thing I said [when he was drafted in 2004], whatever city I go to, I'd always try to do my best to change it.

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